Ovarian cancer is often called a “silent killer” because its early symptoms are vague and easy to overlook. But education, awareness, and compassionate care can make all the difference. At Aslan Health, we’re here to walk with women every step of the way—from prevention and early detection to spiritual and emotional support during treatment.
What Is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries—the glands that produce eggs and important hormones. However, many high-grade serous ovarian cancers may actually start in the fallopian tubes. There are several types of ovarian cancer, but the most common (about 90%) are epithelial tumors, which typically develop in women over age 60.
Signs and Symptoms: Listen to the Whispers
Ovarian cancer rarely shows clear signs early on. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent bloating or abdominal swelling
- Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
- Pelvic or belly pain
- Back pain or fatigue
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Pain during sex
- Changes in menstrual cycles
These symptoms can be mistaken for normal aging or digestive issues, so it’s crucial to listen to your body and talk to a provider if they persist.
Who’s at Risk?
Some risk factors can’t be changed, but others can be managed:
Higher Risk Factors:
- Age 60 and older
- Personal or family history of breast, ovarian, or colorectal cancer
- BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations
- Lynch syndrome (HNPCC)
- Endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease
- Hormone therapy after menopause
- Obesity (BMI ≥ 30)
- Never having children or first pregnancy after age 35
- Ashkenazi Jewish descent
Risk Reduction Strategies:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Using oral contraceptives for 5+ years
- Avoiding postmenopausal hormone therapy
- Preventive removal of fallopian tubes during other pelvic surgery
- Genetic counseling and testing if family history is significant.
Screening & Detection
Unfortunately, there is no standard screening test for ovarian cancer in average-risk women. The CA-125 blood test and transvaginal ultrasound may be used for high-risk individuals, but they carry a risk of false positives.
Your best defense is:
- Knowing your family history
- Reporting symptoms early
- Getting regular pelvic exams
- Talking to your provider about genetic testing if you’re at risk.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the type, stage, and specific biomarkers of the cancer. Most treatment plans include a combination of:
- Surgery: Often includes removing the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus (oophorectomy and hysterectomy)
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy: Used when genetic mutations are present
- Hormone therapy or radiation (in certain cases)
Each woman’s treatment journey is unique. Side effects may vary and can include early menopause, infertility, fatigue, pain, and changes in sexual function. Open communication with your care team is vital.
Life After Diagnosis
Living with ovarian cancer affects your body, mind, emotions, relationships, and finances. It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, but you are not alone. For additional support, education, and survivor connections, visit the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance (MOCA) at mnovarian.org—a trusted resource for women navigating ovarian cancer.
Ask your care team about:
- Survivorship care plans
- Fertility preservation options before treatment
- Palliative care, which can be introduced early to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life
- Support groups, counseling, and spiritual support.
How Aslan Health Can Help
At Aslan Health, we provide whole-person care that includes affordable women’s health services, cancer risk assessment, and emotional support grounded in the love of Jesus Christ. For those who qualify, we offer FREE cancer screenings through the Minnesota Sage Program—including Pap smears, pelvic exams, and mammograms.
We care for our neighbors with compassion, whether they have insurance or not. If you’re experiencing concerning symptoms or are due for a check-up, don’t wait. We’re here for you—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
📅 Walk-ins welcome or schedule online at aslanclinic.com
📍 Located in downtown St. Cloud
📞 Call us at 320-297-6800
Final Thought
Ovarian cancer doesn’t always shout—it whispers. Learning to recognize those whispers and taking action early can save lives. You deserve a care team that listens to your story, walks with you through uncertainty, and reminds you that there is hope. At Aslan Health, we believe in healing rooted in compassion, community, and Christ.